If the 09 is launched in Malaysia how will Volvo compete?
Malaysians have been teased by images of the early Lynk & Co hatchback on test drive trials around the country.
With this latest model, the 09 SUV, Lynk & Co is indirectly putting pressure on its sibling, the Volvo XC90 as the 09’s selling price in China starts from RMB270,000 to 400,000 (which is about USD42,000-62,500) making it significantly better priced (about 50 percent lower) against the Volvo XC90.
The 09 comes ready either as a mild-hybrid (XC90 B5) or plug-in hybrid (XC90 T8) and the 09 is available in three trim levels in each variant, which is Pro, Halo, and Ultra. The MHEVs come in 6 or 7 seat configurations, while PHEVs come in 6 seats only.
The 09 powertrain consists of a 2.0T engine and an Aisin 8 speed automatic transmission regardless of the powertrain and the mild hybrid recuperates braking energy only, while the plug-in hybrid can act as a pure EV on short journeys. Sounds very familiar?
If the 09 were to be launched in Malaysia, it will be subjected to import duties (in China it is tax free and all the Volvo models are imported and taxed) which pushes its selling price closer to a Volvo in Malaysia, however, if it gets tax exemption from our Ministry Of International Trade And Industry (MITI) then its selling price could put pressure on Volvo Malaysia’s sales growth.
The core and heart of the Lynk & Co brand is connectivity. Users are provided with an ever-expanding range of connected technologies in the vehicles, all aimed at making life easier. In just five years, Lynk & Co has accumulated nearly 600,000 vehicle users, with app registrations reaching an even higher number of 1.57 million. Average active monthly users on the app exceed half a million whilst average daily users have reached 120,000.
The Product Range
Meanwhile, the Lynk & Co product portfolio has increased year on year as they have launched a new model every year since its launch, while successively expanding its product range with the 01 Compact SUV, 02 Hatchback, 03 Sedan, 05 Coupe SUV, 06 City SUV, and this latest SPA-based 09 Flagship SUV.
Designed in Gothenburg, each model carries Lynk & Co’s unique ‘Megacity Contrast’ design concept inspired by the lifestyle of youthful urbanites from megacities such as London, New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Tokyo. Every Lynk & Co model offers users a bold and tech-laden mobility experience.
Co-creating and Global Expansion
Lynk & Co was born in the globalized internet era of shared experience and seamless connectivity. Ever since its launch, Lynk & Co has avoided being referred to as just another car brand, but rather a user orientated brand.
Connecting directly with its users, the brand’s products are sold directly online and delivered straight to their doors. New and varied solutions for vehicle and mobility accessibility are offered from traditional ownership and leasing, to mobility-based membership and sharing.
You will be surprised to know that the Lynk & Co brand is already 5 years old and has already expanded its sales reach in the Gulf, starting with Kuwait.
